Hunt on to catch rapist (From Community Newsgroup)

Hunt on to catch rapist

6:32pm Monday 1st December 2008

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AN investigation has been launched after police received a report that a woman was raped close to Manchester Airport.

The attack, which was reported to police recently, took place on Wednesday, October 29 between 4 and 6pm, when the 25-year-old victim was walking along Runger Lane towards the bus stop. As she neared the junction with Thorley Lane a man on a bike approached her and started talking to her.

The victim carried on walking and tried to ignore him, but he became aggressive and started threatening her. She pleaded for him to stop and tried to attract the attention of passing motorists, but the man forced her off the main road onto a path that was hidden from view, forced her to undress and raped her. The woman made her way home but did not tell anyone what had happened to her until several days later.

The man was described as white, over 6ft tall and muscular. He had black hair which was cropped at the sides and a long fringe. He also had long sideburns, which tapered into his chin, a goatee beard and a pencil thin moustache.

He was wearing black Adidas jogging top and bottoms and was riding a sports/racer type cycle. He was thought to be in his early 30s and spoke with a local accent.

Detective Inspector Mick Montford, who is leading this investigation, said: "Its important that people realise that attacks like this are very rare, but that does not reduce the severe impact this has had on this woman, who has been left traumatised.

"Nor does it stop us treating this very seriously. We are currently investigating exactly what happened but in the meantime it is really important that everyone pays close attention to the safety advice provided, especially as it starts to get dark earlier.

"There will be extra patrols in the area and we urge you to call us if you have any worries.

“Please don't feel like you do not have anywhere to turn with your concerns.

“We are particularly interested in hearing from you if you recognise the description of this man, or if you were travelling down Runger Lane at this time and noticed the victim calling for help."Anyone with any information about this attack is asked to contact police at the airport on 0161 856 0250, Greater Manchester Police's switchboard on 0161 872 5050 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Anyone who has been a victim of rape or sexual assault can contact Greater Manchester Police on 0161 872 5050 or 999 in an emergency. GMP has specially trained officers in place to provide a first class response to victims and help support them through the criminal justice process.

St Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Manchester, can also be contacted on 0161 276 6515. This provides a comprehensive and coordinated forensic, counselling and medical aftercare service to anyone in Greater Manchester who has experienced rape or sexual assault. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and people can access them either as a self-referral or via Greater Manchester Police.

Key safety advice: * Don't take short cuts. Stick to well lit, well used routes.

* Try to walk in groups wherever possible.

* If you are alone, try to look confident - look like you know where you are going and walk tall.

* Avoid walking next to bushes and buildings.

* Plan how you are going to get home.

* Be aware of your surroundings.

* Carry a personal attack alarm.

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